CBI Leaves Out ‘Gang Rape’ Charge In Kolkata Doctor Case Remand Note, Focuses On Single Accused

In a significant development in the investigation of the alleged rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has not included charges of “gang rape” in its recent remand note submitted to the trial court. This move marks a divergence from the initial FIR lodged by Kolkata Police, which had included sections related to gang rape.

The Kolkata Police initially registered an FIR under sections 64 (rape) and 103(1) (murder) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) on August 9. The case was subsequently transferred to the CBI following an order from the Calcutta High Court, with the agency taking over the investigation on August 13.

On Friday, during proceedings before the additional chief judicial magistrate (ACJM) court in Sealdah, the CBI requested judicial custody for Sanjay Roy, the sole individual currently arrested in connection with the case. Notably, the CBI’s remand note did not incorporate section 70(1) of the BNS, which pertains to gang rape, suggesting that Roy is the only accused identified so far.

An official close to the investigation stated that while the CBI has not included gang rape charges in the current remand note, additional charges could be added as the investigation progresses. Despite handling the initial stages of the case, the Kolkata Police’s detective department has since transferred the case to the CBI.

The CBI has yet to comment publicly on the matter. Roy, arrested by Kolkata Police shortly after the crime, remains the only person detained in connection with the incident, which has sparked widespread concern and media attention.

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